What Structure Connects the Cerebral Hemispheres?

The cerebral hemispheres, or right and left side of the brain, are connected by a thick set of nerve fibers called the corpus callosum. These nerve fibers transfer messages back and forth between the two sides of the brain.

Each side of the brain is responsible for different functions. The corpus callosum relays information between the hemispheres to support healthy brain function.

The muscles on the left side of the body are controlled by the right side of the brain, which specializes in creativity and spatial awareness. The left side of the brain controls muscles on the right side of the body and specializes in math, logic and critical thinking.

People tend to use key areas of the brain unequally, favoring the right or left hemisphere. Those who rely on the right side of the brain tend to prefer visual images. They enjoy a holistic approach to learning and need to see the big picture before they can understand a topic. Those who rely on the left side of the brain focus on details and prefer to organize information using lists. Though one side of the brain is usually dominant, the corpus callosum constantly sends signals between the two hemispheres.